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In a historic landslide victory, Croatia’s populist president, Zoran Milanovic, secured re-election to the highest office in the country. The resounding win over his conservative opponent, Dragan Primorac, marked a significant moment in Croatian politics. With over 90% of the ballots counted, Milanovic received an impressive 74% of the popular vote, while Primorac, backed by the HDZ party, garnered nearly 26%.
This victory marked the highest percentage of votes ever obtained by a presidential candidate in Croatia since the country gained independence in 1991. While the position of president in Croatia is largely ceremonial, Milanovic’s triumph held great symbolic significance. It also served as a significant blow to the HDZ party and Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic, who have faced challenges following a corruption scandal in November.
Following the announcement of his victory, Milanovic expressed his gratitude to the Croatian people. “Croatia, thank you!” he proclaimed. He viewed the win as a validation of his tenure and a message to those in power. The celebratory atmosphere at an art and music club in Zagreb reflected the enthusiasm of Milanovic’s supporters, who had rallied behind him in his bid for re-election.
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In the first round of the election, Milanovic had already demonstrated strong support, securing over 49% of the vote. The subsequent runoff further solidified his popularity among Croatian voters. Despite a lower voter turnout in the second round, the results showcased a strong endorsement of Milanovic’s leadership and vision for the country.
Croatia, a member of the European Union with a population of 3.8 million, faces economic challenges such as high inflation and widespread corruption. Milanovic’s victory signals a desire for change and reform in the country’s political landscape. His campaign slogan, “Counterbalance,” captured the sentiment of many who felt the need for a check on the ruling party’s power.
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While the presidency in Croatia is primarily symbolic, many view it as a crucial check on single-party dominance. For decades, the HDZ has played a dominant role in shaping the country’s political direction. Milanovic’s victory with the support of the Social Democrats marked a shift towards a more balanced political environment.
Throughout his political career, Milanovic has been a vocal critic of the establishment, both at home and in the European Union. His populist rhetoric and direct style have endeared him to a wide range of supporters. Despite his confrontational approach, he has managed to garner support across the political spectrum, including some on the right.
In contrast, his opponent Primorac campaigned on a platform of unity and traditional values. However, his lack of political experience and charisma failed to resonate with voters, particularly within the HDZ base. As accusations of being a “pro-Russian puppet” were levied against Milanovic, the campaign highlighted the divide between different political factions in the country.
Milanovic’s stance on international issues, such as Russia’s actions in Ukraine and Croatia’s role in the Western military alliance, underscored his commitment to defending democracy. His push for dialogue and cooperation while maintaining Croatia’s sovereignty resonated with many voters. The younger generation, in particular, expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of engagement on issues that directly impact their lives.
As Milanovic begins his second term as president, he faces the challenge of navigating Croatia’s complex political landscape. With a mandate from the people, he aims to continue his efforts to promote transparency, accountability, and progress. The re-election of a populist leader in Croatia reflects the changing dynamics of European politics and the growing demand for responsive and inclusive governance.
